APOOO » Virtual Book Tours

Second Chance at Love Blog Tour Featuring Author Victoria Wells

APOOO — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:27:50 +0000

Getting to Know Victoria Wells (insert author photo)

What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?

I would have to say my greatest strength is that when I love, I love hard. I’m not just referring to eros (romantic) love. I’m talking about philia (brotherly) love. When I love my family and friends there is nothing I wouldn’t do for them. I’m fiercely protective and will tell you off if you try to start some mess with someone I love.

My weakness is I’m too trusting. I tend to almost always give everyone I meet my trust. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not naïve…far from it. I just refuse to walk around thinking that my fellow sister/brother is going to cause me harm. For the most part I think people are good. BUT when you show me your true self, and it’s not good, that’s when I’ll walk away and won’t think twice about looking back.

What does the word success mean to you and do you believe you have achieved that success?

Success to me is going after what you want and working hard to get it. Yes! I’ve achieve that success. From the time I was a very small child I always knew I wanted to work in the medical profession. I became a registered nurse in 1991 with an Associate Degree. It took me ten years to get a Bachelor’s and Master’s in nursing so I could practice as a nurse practitioner. Every day I go to work and provide compassionate care to my sickle cell patients, I see that as a measure of my success.

What is one time you had to stick by a decision you made even though it may have made you unpopular?

Once I had to report a nurse and medical assistant for disclosing a patient’s personal information to another patient. Although it made me pretty unpopular, I would do it all over again.

About the book (insert book cover)

As a young widowed mother, love is the last thing on Karen Johnston’s mind. Her busy life revolves around caring for her two young children, which becomes even more challenging when her children begin to show signs of needing a father in their lives. Just as things start to go haywire in the Johnston household, in walks ruggedly handsome Dominic Peretti, Jr. The attraction between the two is undeniable. Karen spends restless nights dreaming of his touch. As he begins to crowd every space of her life, will she give in to her sensual desires? Or will she sacrifice her desires for the sake of her children?

Dominic ‘Dom’ Peretti, Jr. isn’t looking for a serious relationship when he accepts the task of surrogate father to Karen’s children. But he can’t get the ever so lovely and sexy woman out of his mind. His intention is to have nothing more than a hot, steamy fling to satisfy his appetite. However, as he gets a taste of life with the Johnstons, he has a decision to make. Will he give love a chance? Or will he walk away, leaving Karen and her children in harm’s way?

Be sure and follow the tour each day to learn more about Victoria. Leave a comment each day to be entered to win a $25 Barnes & Noble gift card courtesy of Victoria!

Second Chance at Love Blog Tour Featuring Author Victoria Wells is a post from: APOOO

Master of Disguises Blog Tour Featuring Author James Benjamin

APOOO — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 17:18:39 +0000

Master of Disguises Blog Tour

About the Author

James Benjamin was born and raised as a Christian in Winston-Salem, NC. While growing up, James succumbed to the street life and was lured by the many faces of the enemy. Through his trials and tribulations, his faith in God ended up saving his life and provided an impactful testimony to share with others in his shoes. James has dedicated his life to spreading God’s word through his unique prospective and hopes to help change others lives as He did for him. He is also enrolled at the University of Phoenix, acquiring his associate’s degree. James Benjamin is also a student at Apostle Fredrick Price Ministry Training School class of 2013.

About the Book

James Benjamin is a living miracle. He was on a path towards destruction, and through his faith in God, was saved. In his first, self-published book titled “Master of Disguises,” James guides readers through his compelling story of struggling in the street life, and finding sanctuary through The Lord. Most importantly, he unveils the enemy, and the many disguises the enemy has. He provides inspiration where many feel hopeless, and educates individuals who are lost as he once was. James lives to tell his story to help keep young men and women off the streets and away from the grips of the enemy.

Benjamin’s’ book is different from other books in the market place because it is for the generation that is growing up now. What he endured in his teenage years is the exact same that is going on in the world now. In his book he is “keeping it real” and laying out his personal life in order to see someone set free and delivered from the grip of the enemy. His story Is that it attracts the groups that are hard to communicate to: teens and their parents, prisoners, people living the street life and their families, and the African-American street community.

His book should be an addition to your personal library because the people of God need to be aware of the enemy’s disguises. His bible explains that Satan comes to kill, steal, and destroy. He comes in many different forms and disguises and unless we as a people of God become aware of his disguises we will not be able to defeat him. Parents need to know exactly what Satan has placed out there for their kids that will lure them into the wrong direction. In his book he lays out his life and guides readers through his compelling story of struggling in the street life and finding sanctuary through the Lord. Most importantly he unveils the enemy and the many disguises he has. He provides inspiration where many feel hopeless and educates individuals who are lost as he once was.

Purchase the Book Online at:

Amazon.com

BarnesandNoble.com

BooksaMillion.com

BOOK TRAILER for Master of Disguises

For More Information

Visit the author at http://www.masterofdisguises.com OR http://masterofdisguises.wordpress.com

Visit the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/MasterofDisguises

Master of Disguises Blog Tour Featuring Author James Benjamin is a post from: APOOO

He Left Me Virtual Blog Tour Featuring Author C.M. Jones

APOOO — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 21:04:45 +0000

Welcome to APOOO, C. M. Jones!

In 140 words or less, tell us a little about yourself.
I am a Christian woman first, then a military spouse; a mother; an author/entrepreneur and high school teacher. I love to read, cook and spend time with my family. My family is currently stationed in Kaiserslautern Germany and we love it. I am also an Eastern Star and I am very active with my local chapter in Germany because I love to give back to my community. My husband and I co-own HortonJones, Inc., a small publishing company, and we pray that one day HortonJones, Inc. will be a multi-million dollar corporation.
In 140 words or less, tell us why, He Left Me, would make a great addition to our personal library.
My current book, He Left Me, like all of my work is a Christian based short novel. This book is about a family from Ghana West Africa with a lot of family secrets and issues that have plagued their family for years but no one wants to talk about it, not the grandparents, or the parents. However the children are different, they want to move on and pursue their dreams and love, among other things but because of the weight of the family secrets they are having a hard time. However, when one of the parents give his religious beliefs all of his attention, he finds out that what the family thought were just secrets are actually generational curses and he decides to do something about it.

How did you come up with the premise for He Left Me?
The premise for He Left Me is derived from the idea that many times as women we look at the end result of a relationship that ends badly but we don’t pay attention to the signs along the way that tell us that that particular ending is coming.

Tell us about the main character(s) in He Left Me.
The main character in, He Left Me, is Tete Abula. She is a beautiful Ghanaian woman who married her husband young and had five children but still maintained the spark and love in her heart that she had the day that she fell in love with him. But, when her husband leaves her she feels abandoned and she becomes a bitter woman but he does not realize it. Eventually, Tete unconsciously makes everyone around her miserable and now has to figure out how to change that.

What are some of the main themes you portray, He Left Me?
In the book, He Left Me, a couple of the themes are, curses vs. secrets; as well as self vs. family, but there are many more.

What makes, He Left Me different from other books in the marketplace?
He Left Me is different because while it is fiction it also discuss real issues that people actually deal with everyday and it shows you that there is a solution to the problem.

What genre is He Left Me and who is the target audience?
The genre is Christian fiction and the target audience is 25 years + women and men although it is appropriate for ages 16 years + women and men.
What lessons have you learned about the publishing industry?
I have learned quite a bit about the publishing industry especially because my husband and I launch our publishing company a few years ago. The publishing industry is tough. It’s take a lot of hard work and pavement pounding to really make a name for yourself.

What can readers expect from you in the future?
Right now, I am in school pursuing my Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership so I will not be writing another novel for a few years, at least that’s not my intention. I will however continue to tour and promote the three books that I already have and I am also compiling a book of poems that I have written over the years. As far as my publishing company goes, I have three new authors that I am working with to try and help them release their books soon.
Is there anything else you would like to share with APOOO readers?
Visitors can find me online at www.cmjonestheauthor.com; www.facebook.com/cmjonestheauthor ; www.myspace.com/cmjonestheauthor ; and my work is available on my website listed above, and www.amazon.com and www.barnesandnole.com as well as many other bookstores and websites. In addition if you would like to contact me for any signing events, speaking engagements or seminars, there is a contact page on my website.

He Left Me Virtual Blog Tour Featuring Author C.M. Jones is a post from: APOOO

Living in the Pink Blog Tour featuring author Sharon Tubbs

APOOO — Tue, 31 May 2011 03:41:51 +0000

In 140 words or less, tell us a little about yourself.

Originally from Indiana, I now live in Florida where I’ve worked for the past 15 years as a newspaper journalist. In my spare time, I like hanging out with friends, watching live theater, walking on a nearby nature trail, taking bubble baths, and devouring Rocky Road ice cream. Also, as you might expect from a fiction writer, at times I love to sit and imagine things or just fantasize about life. Living in the Pink was the perfect way to channel all that daydreaming into something worthwhile.

In 140 words or less, tell us why Living in the Pink would make a great addition to our personal library.

Living in the Pink is a collection of humorous and insightful short stories unlike anything else in your library. The stories explore temptations that lead women to straddle the fence on their spiritual journeys. In short, the women are “living in the pink.” What does that mean? It’s simply the stage where so many women get stuck between what the Bible calls that “scarlet stain of sin” and striving to become pure or “white as snow.” They say they believe in God, but only enough to call themselves “spiritual” without having to make significant changes in their lives… They want to believe, just not too much.

How did you come up with the premise for Living in the Pink?

Inspiration for the short stories in Living in the Pink comes from my own triumphs and pitfalls in living out my faith and in simply observing the world around me. I see so many women who are worn out, unhappy, and struggling. In my view, the problem is that often we don’t recognize our potential in Jesus Christ. I’m hoping that Living in the Pink will inspire a change.

Tell us about the main character(s) in Living in the Pink.

The main character, Laura “Sister Pinky” Pinkston, appears in most of the short stories. She’s a wise “church mother” whose mission is to guide women out of their “pinkish” state and into God’s light. The other characters in the series are women who face some sort of crossroad in their lives. In moving forward, they must decide whether they will choose their own way or God’s way.

What are some of the main themes you portray in Living in the Pink?

There are 15 short stories, so the themes are many. For example, characters wrestle with issues such as adulterous relationships, drug-addicted children, church gossip, domestic violence, faith, career ambition, and jealousy.

What makes Living in the Pink different from other books in the marketplace?

The most obvious difference is that this is a collection of short stories. Although Sister Pinky and a few other characters and settings reappear in several stories, they could be read independently. (Readers will get the most from this novel by reading the stories in the order presented, however.) Another difference: The stories are entertaining but also designed to make people think about their own lives. Discussion questions at the end of each story further inspire self-reflection. And Living in the Pink is not just a book, but a broader concept involving a website, devotionals, and a fun PinkyMeter quiz that helps women gauge whether they are actually “in the pink,” or rather at “code red” or “pearly gate” status.

What genre is Living in the Pink and who is the target audience?

The genre is Christian fiction. The target audience is African-American women, ages 30 to 55, although I’ve found that women of various ethnic backgrounds and ages enjoy and can relate to my characters and their stories.

What lessons have you learned about the publishing industry?

I’m learning how complex the industry can be and how much success relies on name recognition and marketing, aside from the product itself.

What can readers expect from you in the future?

I have a few projects under consideration. Readers should expect to read more of my work, although the “when” is still being nailed down.

For More Information

Visit the author online at http://godsdevinedesign.com/ or Read an Excerpt.

Living in the Pink Blog Tour featuring author Sharon Tubbs is a post from: APOOO

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With Style & Amazing Grace Blog Tour Featuring Author Aleysha Proctor

APOOO — Tue, 31 May 2011 03:17:11 +0000

Welcome to APOOO, Aleysha!

In 140 words or less, tell us a little about yourself.

I’m Aleysha Proctor, and I’m a Christian Inspirational Author. I love to encourage people, and not only are my books inspirational, but I also like to use social media on a daily basis to keep positive messages out there. Anyone and just about everyone can tell you how bad things are — I like to tell you that there’s hope in God!

In 140 words or less, tell us why your book title would make a great addition to our personal library.

My book title would make a great addition in anyone’s library because everyone goes through ups and downs in life. And my books will help you get through the valleys of life. I once had someone tell me that they were heading to the hospital, and out of the tons of books that they own, they made sure that they took my book with them to get them through their difficult season.

How did you come up with the premise for your book title?

I came up with my book title, because it talks about being beautiful from the inside – out. So, it’s not that someone will make a transformation with “style and grace” — but with style and AMAZING grace – with the help of the Lord.

Tell us about the main character(s) in your book title.

The main character in my book is the reader. Not only do I give you my recommendations at the end of each chapter, but there’s space for the reader to write down things that they’d personally like to improve in their lives.

What are some of the main themes you portray in your book title?

The main theme that you get from my book title is that anyone who chooses to be beautiful, can be.

What makes your book title different from other books in the marketplace?

My book is different from others in the marketplace because it’s original and authentic. There are tons of books out there about things that make you feel good for a while, but mine will change your life — for the better!

What genre is your book title and who is the target audience?

My book title is Christian Inspirational and my targeted audience is the person who never felt good enough, never felt as though they were pretty enough or smart enough based on messages and images from society.

What lessons have you learned about the publishing industry?

I’ve learned that in the publishing industry, publishing is only a small percentage of the task. Marketing is key.

What can readers expect from you in the future?

Readers can expect more inspirational messages from me in the future. I don’t have any intensions on changing my genre or message.

Is there anything else you would like to share with APOOO readers?

I have three books, to date, and all of them are geared to encourage you, inspire you and help you change your perspective about the setbacks in life.

About the Books

With Style & Amazing Grace

Do not let your adornment be merely outward arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel 4 rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. 1 Peter 3:3-4 (New King James Version) Embrace a more balanced lifestyle. One with style, grace, rest and purpose. It’s the kind of life that God blesses, and in turn, you’re able to bless others.

Purchase these Books Online at:

For More Information

Visit the author online at http://www.aleyshaproctor.com/

With Style & Amazing Grace Blog Tour Featuring Author Aleysha Proctor is a post from: APOOO

Life is What You Make It Blog Tour Featuring Carl Mathis

APOOO — Fri, 20 May 2011 17:40:40 +0000

Life is What You Make It Blog Tour

Welcome to APOOO, Carl!
In 140 words or less, tell us a little about yourself.

Hi, my name is Carl Mathis and I am an Author/Speaker and a Minster. I’ve dedicated my life to helping people achieve their dreams through the word of GOD. When I lost my wife through death in December 2005, I was faced with the challenges of raising three boys as a single parent, and at the same time coping with the loss of my mate.

I spent many nights crying out to GOD for a strategy to overcome my situation. The strategy I got was, while I am going through such difficulties, share it with others, help them to overcome, and I would overcome at the same time.

I pursue diligently because I see how many people continue to struggle. Their quality of life has diminished which forces them to give up and throw in the towel. Someone needs to reach out to these people and let them know that they should hold on to their dreams. It is important to let them know you can accomplish anything you put your mind to.

In 140 words or less, tell us why Life Is What You Make It would make a great addition to our personal library?

Life is What You Make It offers biblically-grounded tips for quality living. Many have come to the conclusion that if for some reason an unfortunate situation occurs in their lives, their chances to move on and have a fulfilling life are impossible.

In this book it shows you that it’s all about changing what’s within you which then grants you the ability to change everything else around you. The result is a life well-lived filled with happiness.

I think that this day and age calls for lifestyles that are busy, fast-paced and absolutely hectic. We tend to get lost in the flurry of things, and sometimes the most important things are neglected. When we miss out on what really matters, this creates a vacuum in our lives that cannot be filled. We end up searching for the missing piece in all the wrong places, and this can cause all this unexplained frustration in living an unfulfilled life.

In my book, I have outlined several steps to living a full life—acceptance of the situation, conditioning the mind, making the right decisions, and finally, believing!

How did you come up with the premise for Life Is What You Make It?

I wasn’t prepared for the devastation that the loss of my wife would bring to my life. I soon found myself grieving, struggling to make ends meet, and trying to raise his sons, who were also dealing with personal turmoil from the loss of their mother. After months of waiting for someone to rescue me, I had to face the inevitable truth–no one was coming. I realized that if I wanted out of the mess his life was becoming, I was going to have to do it myself. That’s when I realized life is what you make it.

Tell us about the main character(s) in Life Is What You Make It.

I am a living testimony that what the enemy initially planned for evil, God would turn around for good. After the death of my wife in December of 2005 it was a heavy burden to raise three boys on my own, trying to fill both motherly and fatherly roles. Depression set in, and I wanted to quit. But in the midst of me crying out to God for a way to overcome the pain, it was revealed to me that in the process of helping others overcome, I too would triumph and overcome any life obstacle.

If I would have thrown in the towel in 2005,I would have never published my debut novel Life is What You Make It: Build a Better Life for You and Your Family, or one of my recent books Life is What You Make It: Seven Steps to Moving Forward. In addition to his most recently published works, I also write feature stories for The Royal Chronicle, my church’s monthly newsletter. Currently serving as a minister and elder at Holy Ghost Tabernacle Ministries in Goulds, FL, I am is no stranger to work in the ministry.

Besides teaching bible classes, I spend a significant amount of time volunteering with Shepherds Care, an outreach program designed to help those in need and the homeless. I am also furthering my theological studies through the National Alliances of Progressive Churches. Together with my enthusiasm and determination to see people prosper worldwide, I am certainly one of the chosen vessels for a time such as this—a time where people see no hope and choose to give up on their dreams. I seek to not only to give people hope and encouragement for a season, but for a lifetime.

What are some of the main themes you portray in Life Is What You Make It?

Life is what you make it poses a question to the reader, that when it comes to life, he/she has the ability and authority to direct it in any direction they choose. The cover gives a visualization of three glasses, to represent the idea of choice. One glass is empty, one is half and one is full, so the question is “how would you prefer your life?”

What makes Life Is What You Make It different from other books in the marketplace?

The title of the book gives the reader the authority and control to make a choice, that life is whatever they make it to be.

What genre is Life Is What You Make It and who is the target audience?

My target audience is those who need motivation/inspiration to overcome any obstacle in their life.

What lessons have you learned about the publishing industry?

I have learned that the publishing industry will take you to a point, but the rest is up to you to get your project out there.

What can readers expect from you in the future?

I have a writing ministry that I love, so I expect to put out many more titles. I recently published a title “What’s on the Menu: Steps to healing and breakthrough. The project I am working on now which I will publish soon is a challenging one titled “Intercourse.” This title is about a relationship with God that will birth your purpose.

Is there anything else you would like to share with APOOO readers?

Read the book with an open mind. Be ready for changes! Great things are in store for every life that yearns for the truth, and when you embrace this, the way you see life will completely change for the better. Remember: it’s all up to you!

Purchase the Book Online at:

Amazon.com BarnesandNoble.com BooksaMillion.com

Visit the author at CarlMathis.com

Visit the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/LifeisWhatYouMakeIt

Life is What You Make It Blog Tour Featuring Carl Mathis is a post from: APOOO

Giving Up the Ghost Virtual Blog Tour Featuring Author Stacy-Deanne

APOOO — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 21:23:50 +0000

Stacy-Deanne: Behind the Creation of “Giving up the Ghost”

About “Giving up the Ghost”:
Albany Detective Brianna “Bree” Morris is having the year from hell. A sadistic admirer has been stalking her for months and now her friend Cheyenne Wilson has been beaten and left for dead. With her ex-lover and faithful partner, Steven Kemp, Bree thrusts herself into the case. It’s not long before they believe two unrelated British men are connected to the attack. Michael is a womanizing artist with a ferocious appetite for rough sex. Simon is a wealthy free spirit looking for love in all the wrong places, but has one too many skeletons in his closet. Bree struggles to determine fact from fiction when it comes to Michael and Simon but her attempts are blurred by Michael’s manipulation and her sexual attraction to Simon, who Steven’s convinced cannot be trusted.
Meanwhile the stalker does everything in his power to get close to Bree and his obsession evokes a spiral of violence.
Bree must trust her heart to find answers but her heart leads her to the most dangerous man of all.

How I Came Up With the Concept:
This is my fourth release and the first in my interracial romantic suspense series starring Albany, New York detectives Bree and Steven, ex-interracial lovers who appeared in my ’08 novel, “Melody”. I fell in love with these characters and knew there were many more adventures to take them on. I also got tons of feedback from fans that enjoyed the crime-fighting duo.

Why My Book is Unique:
“Giving up the Ghost” fits into many different genres and focuses on a lot of issues through various subplots. The book covers the subjects of stalking, adultery, interracial relationships, obsession and mental illness. While writing the book it was important that I remained accurate to the particular form of mental illness I touch on. I wanted to be compassionate to those who suffer from this and wanted them to realize that I take this disability extremely seriously.
The book is also unique because it’s a crime novel with a black heroine and an interracial romantic twist. It also has two very hot British male characters!

What I Hope Readers Get From the Book:
My first goal is to entertain but also educate. I want the audience to feel what the characters feel to the point of understanding why they react to everything they go through. I also hope they receive a very satisfying and emotional ride.

A Lesson I Learned While Writing this Book:
I learned that anyone, no matter how strong or put together they are can become vulnerable. Anyone can be a victim no matter the precautions we take. It makes you wonder how safe we really are.

The Hardest Thing about Writing the Book:
This book made me confront my thoughts and reactions to many issues. I learned that not only do we sometimes not know others as well as we think we also don’t know ourselves as well as we assume. This book made me dig deep. It also reminded me that not everything is black and white or good and evil. There is a lot of in between and sometimes it’s that shade of gray that reminds us not to be so quick to judge and that any one of us can end up in a certain situation.

How to Get a Hold of the Book:
The book is available nationwide in print as well as on Kindle and Nook! Thanks for the support! Get your copy today and spread the word!

Giving up the Ghost by Stacy-Deanne (Peace in the Storm Publishing) read a free sample today.

Visit my website to learn more about the series.

The Season of Sin (Book 2 in the Bree and Steven Series) Coming Late 2011!

Giving Up the Ghost Virtual Blog Tour Featuring Author Stacy-Deanne is a post from: APOOO

My Father’s Color Virtual Blog Tour Featuring Author Marian Thomas

APOOO — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 20:28:28 +0000

Welcome to APOOO, Marian!

Tell us a little about yourself.
There is nothing special about me, I am a woman, wife, writer and author who resides in Atlanta by way of Chicago. I love a man, who has supported me and given me the strength to write even when I didn’t feel like doing so. I inherited the love for melodies tones from my mother, who gave me the hand of poetry. Listening to my father play as a percussionist helped me to develop an ear for music, while my husband’s love for Jazz helped me to focus on it. My sister, made me cry when she stated how much she was proud of me. My friends keep me grounded.
My debut title, Color Me Jazzmyne, became an Amazon Best-seller. It was also recognized by the Sankofa Literary Society Review as one of the” Top 100 Books”-1st Qtr 2010.

Why would your new release, My Father’s Colors make a great addition to our personal library.
My Father’s Colors is both contemporary fiction and literary entertainment. It is laced with over 320 pages of drama as it combines love, self-preservation, and forgiveness into an engaging and entertaining must read! Critics have called My Father’s Colors, “Utterly Amazing, “Superb” and “Real”. It takes you on four drama-filled journeys and one incredible destination, filled with betrayal, lies and shocking secrets. It is perhaps my favorite of the two books thus far!
How did you come up with the premise for My Father’s Colors?
My first book was what many called “an emotional appeal to the heart”. I wanted to use that same energy in this book, but with a focus more on the drama-side of things rather than the emotional appeal. Don’t get me wrong, I think readers will connect with the characters on an emotional level, but it’s the drama that I hope will keep them wanting more. That’s where I started in my mind, thinking about ways to make the story take different directions, different journeys that all lead to one.

Tell us about the main character(s) in My Father’s Colors.
Naya Monà is back on another emotional and drama-filled roller coaster as she finds herself fighting to find her voice, discover her father’s past and search for her daughter. How do you find a daughter you never knew you gave birth to?
Then there’s Chris—her husband. How far would one go for love? That is the question that Chris wastes no time answering. He will do whatever it takes to remove his wife’s pain, even if it means being the one to cause her the most.
Let’s not forget Misty. Fame and Fortune have been the determining factor for Misty ever since her father passed away. How far will she go, this time, to achieve it?
Introducing, Carl Thompson. Carl has found the love of his life, only she doesn’t know it. Green eyes and hazel brown hair fill his dreams for the future. Does he have enough love for the both of them?

What are some of the main themes you portray in My Father’s Colors?
Forgiveness, race, love, relationships and even friendships are some of the main themes portrayed throughout My Father’s Colors.

What makes My Father’s Colors different from other books in the marketplace?
I recently visited a book club for a discussion of My Father’s Colors, and one of the things that most impressed the group was that My Father’s Colors focuses on telling a good story rather than being erotic in nature. I want that to be my trademark. I want people to read my books and come out with something that stimulates their minds and hearts. I hope that shows the uniqueness of my books. The depth of my pen.

What genre is My Father’s Colors and who is the target audience?
My Father’s Colors is contemporary fiction. Some say that it should be geared toward a Christian audience because of the fact that it doesn’t contain an erotic nature or language. However, any women that is a lover of a good story, I want to reach.

What lessons have you learned about the publishing industry?
To never give up. Being an author is not easy. You have to put yourself out there for others to review not only your books, but in a sense—you as well. People have to connect you with, then it makes it easier to connect to your books.

What can readers expect from you in the future?
I am currently working on my third book titled, Strings of Colors. It will be the conclusion to the Naya Monà series.

Is there anything else you would like to share with APOOO readers?
Many of the APOOO Readers supported my first book, Color Me Jazzmyne and so I want to say thank you. It is because of you that I am able to continue on this journey of authorship!

Author’s Website:
http://www.marianlthomas.com

About the Author

Marian L. Thomas graduated Magna Cum Laude, receiving her Bachelor degree in Business Communication. She began her writing debut as a Sports Editor and as a News Editor for a local Atlanta college paper.

It took over twenty-years for Marian to see her first piece of published fiction in Print─Color Me Jazzmyne, in early 2009. Color Me Jazzmyne went on to become a Amazon Best-selling novel for Marian, reaching #1 in the Rhythm & Blue category, #2 in Inner-Child and #7 in Performance/Voice for her character Naya Moná’s, amazing melodious tones that are developed throughout the book.

Color Me Jazzmyne was awarded as one of the “Top 100 Books” for 2010 by the Sankofa Literary Society Review.

While Marian’s books are a work of fiction, they touch on the struggles of women, abuse, relationships and friendships, giving each one a hint of reality that readers are looking for in a good, clean and emotional story.

Visit the author online at http://www.marianlthomas.com/

About the Book

Four people will travel on a journey that will lead to one destination.
How do you find a daughter you never knew you gave birth to? That is the question that Naya must answer as she once again finds herself on a journey filled with betrayal, lies and shocking secrets of her past.
How far would one go for love? That is the question that Chris wastes no time answering. He will do whatever it takes to remove his wife’s pain, even if it means being the one to cause her the most.
Fame and Fortune have been the determining factor for Misty ever since her father passed away. How far will she go, this time to achieve it?

Carl Thompson has found the love of his life, only she doesn’t know it. Green eyes and hazel brown hair fill his dreams for the future. Does he have enough love for the both of them?
Join best-selling author Marian L. Thomas as she takes you through the pages of My Father’s Colors. This book is guaranteed to make you laugh, cry and get caught in the drama-filled story of a woman’s journey to find her voice, again!

Purchase the Book Online at:
Amazon.com
BarnesandNoble.com

For More Information

Visit the author online at:
http://www.marianlthomas.com

View the blog tour schedule at:
http://bit.ly/MyFathersColors

My Father’s Color Virtual Blog Tour Featuring Author Marian Thomas is a post from: APOOO

Beyond the Closet Door Book Blog Tour Featuring Author Sharon Jenkins

APOOO — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 11:23:40 +0000

What are some of the main themes you portray in your book title?

The title Beyond the Closet Door is a complement to the book cover. The picture on the cover speaks volumes to my experience of neglect as a toddler in the closet. Lots of things happen in the closet that we don’t want anyone to know about. Until we find the courage to open the closet door of our abuse, we can not be healed.

What makes your book title different from other books in the marketplace?
The title itself is riveting. Everyone has a secret that they are not sharing with the world. People are drawn to the book by the picture, but the title makes you want to stay a while and visit this little girl to find out what a child would have to hide from the world.

What genre is your book title and who is the target audience?
Beyond the Closet Door is a great non-fiction read for anyone who has a heart for people who have experienced abuse or been abused. A report of child abuse is made every ten seconds! The odds are, if it has not already touched someone in your family, it will if strategic measures aren’t taken to prevent it. This book increases awareness of the plight of this American tragedy, acts as an alert to community activists and is a healing balm of hope to all those who have suffered it. Stolen innocence can not be retrieved, but the healing power of Jesus Christ can turn even this atrocity into good for the benefit of that individual.

How did you come up with the premise for your book title?
I am a living witness that the uncompromised love of Jesus Christ and the price He paid at Calvary is sufficient for the abuse that I have suffered both as a child and as an adult. I had a closet experience as a child that shaped my life for a constant battle with fear. Others I have interviewed have had more severe acts of violence happen to them and lived to tell about it, but if left up to their perpetrator, they would not have. My book is merely a voice crying out in the wilderness for those who have lost and are losing their innocence as we speak. One second, two seconds, three seconds, four seconds, five seconds … ten seconds and another child’s life has been stained forever.

Tell us about the main character(s) in your book title.
Beyond the Closet Door offers hope to the adult who has silently carried this burden alone for a lifetime. There is a journal prompt after every chapter that allows the reader to “Tell Their Story.” My story is the main thread throughout the book, but it isn’t just about me, it’s a testament of lots of voices that are shouting, “I got up from the bed of my affliction with the help of a loving Savior and so can you.” It is also not a book based on the blame or condemnation of the abuser. Research indicates that the abuser was most like also abused in their childhood. They too, can find healing in its pages.

What lessons have you learned about the publishing industry?
You can spend a lot of money and get no where in this industry. You must develop strategic relationships in order to be successful. I am currently working on a national tour of my 2011 Authors Networking Summit. We start at the Michigan Spring Book Festival in Detroit, Michigan on April 15. (www.authorsnetworkingsummit.com). The summit’s theme for this year is “Authorpreneurship.” Often authors are excellent at their craft, but not very good at the business end of writing. We plan to assist authors in being a total package, so that they can “handle their business” and make more money and sell more books through networking, diversification and collaboration.

What can readers expect from you in the future?
I will release a new literary work titled “Authorpreneurship” at the summit. I am also working on a children’s book and a sequel to Beyond the Closet Door that focuses on male sexual abuse.

Is there anything else you would like to share with APOOO readers?
I also do a Blog Talk Radio program for authors every Wednesday called “Let’s Talk About It!” and I would l am looking for authors to interview and join us jus t listen. We have real fun; it’s kind of like a literary “View.” (www.blogtalkradio.com/themastercommunicator)

About the Author

Sharon Jenkins shares her very personal story of how she went from victim to victor over abuse. The book Beyond the Closet Door… is centered on her closet experience as toddler and how this experience of neglect has shaped every life experience she has had since then. She chronicles its effect from that point through her adulthood. This book is not about blame but perseverance. The silent scream of abuse continues to cry out in this nation and as an advocate for the abused she has made it her personal mission to help others child abuse adult victims “stop the hurting.”

Known locally as The Master Communicator, the author is proficient in communicating the plight of the abused child in this revelatory book. Ms. Jenkins is a motivational speaker and workshop facilitator. She is also the co-author of another inspirational book, Songs of Three Sisters, and an avid contributor to local magazines and newspapers. She is current a writer for Beauty Come Forth E-Magazine.

Purchase the Book Online at:

Amazon.com

BooksaMillion.com

BarnesandNoble.com

For More Information

Visit the author online at:

www.sharoncjenkins.com

authorsnetworkingsummit@gmail.com

http://www.facebook.com/BeyondtheClosetDoor

View the blog tour schedule at:

http://bit.ly/BeyondtheClosetDoor

Beyond the Closet Door Book Blog Tour Featuring Author Sharon Jenkins is a post from: APOOO

Man Enough For Me Blog Tour Featuring Author Rhonda Bowen

APOOO — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 15:58:50 +0000

Man Enough for Me Blog Tour Featuring Author Rhonda Bowen

Welcome to APOOO, Rhonda!
In 140 words or less, tell us a little about yourself.
I’m Rhonda Bowen, daughter, friend, sister, writer, event planner, teacher and child of God. I was born in Jamaica but my home is in Toronto, Canada. I enjoy a good argument, cracking up with my family and getting lost in a good book. I am currently in a recovery program for my shoe and purse addiction, for which my bank account is very grateful. Writing is my therapy and I am blessed to be able to share it. I also love to travel and have been fortunate to spend the last six months in Thailand teaching English as a Second language.

In 140 words or less, tell us why Man Enough For Me would make a great addition to our personal library.
I think Man Enough For Me is the kind of book that you can read and share with your girlfriends, then share with your niece and then share with your mother. It is about a young woman with a passion for her career, her family, her friends, and her faith – things which most of us hold dear. When the stability of these things is threatened however, she is forced to make choices that will impact the rest of her life. The relationships between the characters in this book are very real, and definitely ones most people can relate to. There is a love story going on but there are also real life issues, a few of which don’t get wrapped up nicely – just like in real life. But I think most readers will walk away satisfied at the end.

How did you come up with the premise for Man Enough For Me?
Inspiration came from quite a few sources actually. For one, I have always wanted to write stories about real things that real single Christian women go through. You can take out the steamy sex scenes and still have stories that are worth telling. Come sit down for an hour with me and a few of my single girlfriends and I’ll prove it.

I also had the opportunity to work on a small project with people in the music industry some time ago. The experiences I had with those people inspired the characters in Man Enough For Me. After that the story sort of wrote itself. Of course all names were changed to protect the innocent (wink, wink).

Tell us about the main character(s) in Man Enough For Me.
Our main girl is Jules Jackson. Everyone either knows a woman like Jules or is Jules. She’s got her life on a tight schedule, holding down a day job, running a different hustle on the side and handling the issues of her friends and family. She is used to having everything under control, but she learns that to get what God has waiting for you, you often have to let go of what’s in your hands.

While Jules thinks she’s got everything in control, Germaine Williams is the kind of brother you look at and know for sure that he’s got everything handled. He is the guy who manages to catch Jules’ attention despite the busyness that is her life. This tall, dark and handsome record store owner has ambition that matches Jules’ and game that keeps her guessing. However there are secrets surrounding his life that makes it hard for Jules to trust him. Fortunately he is able to look past all her issues and see that winning her over will be worth the effort.

What are some of the main themes you portray in Man Enough For Me?
Trust is the big theme in Man Enough For Me. Jules goes through a lot of challenges during the course of the novel and loses her grip on a lot of things she depends on, like her career, her relationships with friends and family, and her own assurance of her relationship with God. She learns the hard way that she has to trust God implicitly, even when the things that are happening around her don’t make sense.

The other angle to trust in this novel, involves believing in the people around you, and having faith in them. Initially Jules doesn’t trust her friends enough to tell them her suspicions about Germaine. Even after years of friendship she still believes they might side against her. Other characters also struggle with trust issues in their relationships. Maxine hesitates to tell her boyfriend what’s going on with her, and Tanya hesitates to tell her business partner ‘Dre something that has been on her mind for a long time. They all learn that their relationships with each other will not survive unless they are willing to be vulnerable with the people they care about.

What makes your book title different from other books in the marketplace?
I think the relationships between the characters in Man Enough For Me, especially between the young women, is unique. The friendships between them are solid. They love each other like sisters and defend each other fearlessly outside the group. But among themselves, they are real enough to let each other know when they are wrong. Each one has something special that the other two are lacking; Maxine is the one without a filter; Tanya is the diplomat and the peacemaker; and Jules is the practical one who you can count on in an emergency. When I was writing it I could hear my own girlfriends in my head, I think people reading the novel will connect in the same way.

What genre is your book title and who is the target audience?
If I had to, I would say the genre is African American Fiction. The target audience is women with girlfriends, careers, mothers or men-issues.

What lessons have you learned about the publishing industry?
So many! For one you can’t hold things too tightly. Once you sign on that dotted line, your manuscript now belongs to you and your publishing company – and what happens next is usually a group decision where you can easily get outvoted. It’s important not to get too attached to your words, your novel title, or your cover art ideas as these can often change. I was fortunate to have an amazing editor who involved me in every step. And that’s another thing I learned – there is nothing like a good editor.

What can readers expect from you in the future?
Hopefully another title in a year or so!

Is there anything else you would like to share with APOOO readers?
Yes! I love hearing from readers. So please, drop me an email, tweet or facebook message anytime and let me know what you’re reading (hopefully me!) You can reach me at www.rhondabowen.com, rhonda.bowen@yahoo.com or www.facebook.com/MsRhondie

Book Trailer

Twenty-something public relations gem Jules Jackson has everything in her life under control, and that’s exactly the way she likes it. She’s got no problem handling two jobs, her crazy friends, and her difficult mother. But she’s just about given up on men—until she meets fine Germaine Williams …

Straight-up catch Germaine is eager to prove his worth to Jules, and she falls hard. But it’s soon clear Germaine’s keeping at least one big secret. And the deeper Jules digs, the more her balancing act, and her romance, begins to crumble. Now Jules can either turn to her faith and open her heart to love—or risk getting it broken…

Purchase the Book Online at:

Amazon.com

BooksaMillion.com

BarnesandNoble.com

For More Information

Visit the author online at http://www.rhondabowen.com

View the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/ManEnoughForMe

Man Enough For Me Blog Tour Featuring Author Rhonda Bowen is a post from: APOOO

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